The sacred Tirupati Laddu Prasadam, revered by millions of Hindus, has now been thrust into a scandal of unimaginable proportions. The discovery of pig fat and beef fat in the laddu, offered at the Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati, has shaken the faith of devotees. Instead of addressing the issue with the gravity it deserves, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy chose to dismiss the allegations by accusing the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) of “politicising religious matters”. Such a response does little to console the millions of Hindus who now feel betrayed.

Chandrababu Naidu, the leader of the TDP, rightfully raised the alarm when lab test results confirmed the presence of these objectionable substances. The YSR Congress-led government's failure to prevent this desecration should be condemned outright. No amount of political mudslinging can change the fact that sacred offerings, considered pure and holy, were tarnished by the inclusion of animal fats that are strictly forbidden in Hindu rituals.

Jagan Mohan Reddy tried to justify his administration's actions by stating that “the tender process occurs every six months, and the qualification criteria has not changed for decades. Suppliers must provide an NABL certificate and a product quality certificate. TTD collects samples from the ghee, and only products that pass certification are used.” But this raises more questions than it answers. If the process was so rigorous, how did this grotesque betrayal of Hindu faith occur under his watch? How were products tainted with animal fats allowed into the preparation of the prasadam in the first place?

In a further attempt to deflect blame, Reddy accused the TDP of “politicizing religious matters”, stating that his regime had rejected subpar products 18 times. However, this does nothing to explain why the system failed at such a crucial moment, leading to this scandal that strikes at the very heart of Hindu sentiment.

Former TDP Chairman and current YSR Congress Party leader YV Subbareddy, too, has denied the allegations, insisting that only organic ingredients have been used in the preparation of the Laddu Prasadam over the past three years. His statement, “All the ingredients used for Swami’s offerings from the last three years are all organic ingredients, including ghee,” comes across as a desperate attempt to sweep the scandal under the rug. The use of organic ingredients hardly matters when the presence of pig and beef fat has been scientifically confirmed.

Subbareddy’s further remarks, calling the allegations “vile” and an attempt to mislead the people, insult the intelligence of devotees. Instead of taking responsibility for the contamination of such a sacred offering, the YSR Congress Party seems more focused on damage control than on preserving the sanctity of Hindu religious traditions.

We got samples tested and confirmed beef fat and pig fat adulteration, says TTD Executive Officer Shamala Rao

In a shocking revelation, Shamala Rao, the executive officer of Tirumala Tirupathi Devastanam (TTD), confirmed that the apprehensions about the quality of the Tirupati Laddu Prasadam were valid. Under the instructions of then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, a thorough investigation was launched to address concerns surrounding the sacred offering. This investigation led to devastating results that have caused deep dismay among devotees.

“When I took over as executive officer TTD, the CM expressed concern on the ghee procured and the quality of the laddu which is considered to be very sacred and offered as ‘Prasadam’ to Lord Venkateswara Swamy. Any deviation in the quality will cause doing ‘apavithram’ (doing something which is not sacred),” said Rao. This concern highlighted the critical responsibility placed on the TTD to ensure that the laddu, considered one of the holiest offerings to the deity, maintains its purity. Rao recalled how the Chief Minister wanted swift and decisive actions taken to restore the temple’s sanctity. He insisted on using only pure cow milk ghee, a key ingredient in the laddu prasadam, to protect its religious and cultural significance.

In his role, Rao encountered a worrying discovery. “We found that we don’t have any internal lab to test adulteration in the ghee. There is no system to check the quality of ghee in outside labs also… The rates quoted by tenderers are unviable, they are so low that anyone can say that pure cow ghee cannot cost so less…” This alarming statement revealed a glaring lack of infrastructure to monitor the quality of ghee, leading to concerns about potential adulteration. Rao’s acknowledgment of unviable tender rates hinted at possible foul play, as the low costs raised doubts about the authenticity of the ghee being supplied to such a significant religious institution.

The executive officer, in a bid to safeguard the sanctity of the offerings, took firm action. “We warned all suppliers, that they will be blacklisted if the ghee supplied doesn’t pass the lab test… We collected all samples and sent it to the best lab, it is government-controlled, and the reports have come and are shocking,” Rao revealed. The decision to send the samples for government-backed testing underscored the gravity of the situation. The results that followed were nothing short of alarming.

“The report says the ghee sample is adulterated with vegetable fat and also animal fat. Animal fat adulteration includes lard (pig fat), palm oil, beef tallow, and fish oil including grape seed and linseed. The ghee sample was a concoction of all this and the result was abnormally low. Pure milk fat should have a reading between 95.68 to 104.32, but all our ghee samples had values around 20, which means the ghee supplied is highly adulterated…” The stark contrast between the expected purity and the actual findings was shocking. What was supposed to be pure cow ghee had been adulterated with an appalling mix of substances, including forbidden animal fats like beef tallow and lard, a blatant violation of the sacredness associated with the prasadam.

Rao didn’t stop at just identifying the problem. “We started the procedure for blacklisting and also penalising the supplier. We formed an expert committee to improve ghee supplies and also to strengthen our internal system so that we don’t face this problem again… We have found suppliers who have passed the tests…” He reassured that swift measures were being taken to penalize those responsible for this egregious act. The formation of an expert committee to revamp the ghee supply process was a crucial step toward preventing such a breach of trust from happening again.

Finally, Rao added, “We have been asked by the expert committee to set up our own lab… This problem will be solved in the future.” Establishing an internal lab is an essential step forward, allowing TTD to ensure the quality of the offerings without depending on external sources. It’s a measure that seeks to restore the faith of millions of devotees whose trust has been shaken by this scandal.

Rao confirmed that the Tirumala Tirupathi Devastanam (TTD) is taking swift action to restore trust by setting up an in-house lab. This is a crucial step in ensuring that future instances of adulteration in sacred offerings are prevented. However, until the lab is fully operational, the TTD is collaborating with NABL-accredited labs, where samples are regularly sent to verify the quality of ingredients used in the prasadam. In the meantime, the process to blacklist former suppliers, who were responsible for sending adulterated ghee, has already begun. New suppliers have been identified, and their samples have passed the stringent quality tests set by the TTD.

The scandal took a more intense turn earlier on Thursday when Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a damning video clip. In the clip, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu could be seen discussing the use of animal fat instead of ghee in the preparation of ‘Tirupati Prasadam’ at the Sri Venkateswara temple. This revelation has shocked millions of devotees who hold the temple and its sacred offerings in the highest regard.

Minister Nara Lokesh took to social media to express his outrage. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), he stated, “The Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YS Jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam.” His post reflected the deep sense of betrayal felt by devotees across the state, as such an egregious violation of religious sentiments was unimaginable for a temple of such great significance.

Nara Lokesh didn’t hold back in his criticism of the YSRCP government, adding, “Shame on YS Jagan and the YSR party government that couldn’t respect the religious sentiments of crores of devotees.” His words echoed the sentiments of countless Hindus who are now grappling with the disturbing reality that their sacred prasadam was tainted with animal fat, an act seen as a complete disregard for their faith.

On the other hand, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader YV Subbareddy, as he had done before, denied these serious allegations. He maintained his earlier stance that only organic ingredients had been used in the preparation of the prasadam. This denial, however, has done little to quell the outrage, as lab tests have already shown the disturbing presence of substances like beef fat and lard in the samples collected.

The stark contrast between the findings of lab reports and the YSRCP's repeated denials continues to fuel this controversy. While Rao and the TTD are taking steps to address the issue, the damage to the faith and trust of millions of devotees is already severe, and the process of healing these wounds will not be an easy one.

Beef fat, pig fat, and fish oil used in Tirupati temple laddus: NDDB test report confirms allegations of Chandrababu Naidu

The shocking findings regarding the contamination of the sacred Tirupati Laddu Prasadam have been confirmed through official test results, revealing a betrayal of Hindu religious sentiment that is difficult to comprehend. According to the test report, which has sent waves of outrage among devotees, beef tallow, fish oil, lard (pig fat), and palm oil, among other substances, were used in the preparation of the laddus distributed as prasadam at the renowned Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. This temple is one of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites in India, visited by millions of worshippers every year.

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu had earlier raised concerns about the use of animal fat in the making of the prasadam, a claim that many found difficult to believe due to its sheer audacity. Naidu had stated, “They (YSRC government) not only provided substandard food to the devotees, such as Anna Prasadam in Tirumala, but also used inferior quality ingredients to make prasadam, which is offered to Lord Venkateswara. Instead of using pure ghee, they used animal fat.” This bold allegation, which sparked immediate outrage, has tragically turned out to be true, leading to even more profound concerns about the handling of religious offerings under the YSRCP government.

The National Dairy Development Board’s (NDDB) “Centre of Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food” (CALF) laboratory in Gujarat carried out the tests that confirmed the presence of animal fat in the ghee used to prepare the sacred prasadam. According to the report, “The S value of all equations for sample coded as AB023654 are falling out of the range as prescribed by the method. If any S-value falls outside the corresponding limits, consider the sample to contain a foreign fat,” clearly indicating that the ghee had been adulterated with foreign substances. This scientific finding aligns directly with Naidu’s earlier claims and confirms the fears of many devotees who rely on the purity of the prasadam for their spiritual practices.

As further detailed in the NDDB report, the sacred laddus were not just contaminated with beef tallow, a form of animal fat derived from cows, but also with lard, which is a fat obtained from pigs, and fish oil. These revelations are especially disturbing for the millions of devout Hindus for whom the consumption of such substances is not only forbidden but considered sacrilegious.

Adding to this, the report also mentioned a variety of vegetarian oils and fats used in the laddus, including Soya Bean, Sunflower, Olive, Rapeseed, Linseed, Wheat germ, Maize germ, Cotton Seed, Coconut, Palm kernel fat, and Palm Oil. While these ingredients are less controversial, the presence of animal fats overshadows the use of these vegetarian alternatives, as the laddus’ integrity as a holy offering has already been compromised.

“Today, we are using pure ghee and cleansed the system in the temple. The quality of prasadam and food has improved, and steps are being taken to make further improvements,” Chandrababu Naidu added during his address at the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) legislative party meeting on 18th September.

Chandrababu Naidu, in his firm address, made it clear that the measures taken to rectify the previous scandal surrounding the adulteration of Tirupati Laddu Prasadam have been effective. His statement reflects the commitment to ensuring that the sanctity of the temple and its offerings is maintained. According to Naidu, the process of using pure ghee has already been implemented, and the quality of prasadam and food served to devotees has significantly improved. He assured that more steps would be taken to bring further improvements, ensuring that the devotees can trust the sacred offerings once again.

The issue of contamination in the prasadam had stirred intense outrage, with devotees expressing their deep sense of betrayal. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the renowned Sri Venkateswara temple, faced harsh criticism during this period. Naidu’s declaration of having “cleansed the system” indicates that the management is now focused on restoring the faith of the millions who visit the temple every year.

However, these claims have not gone unchallenged. YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader and former TTD chairman YV Subba Reddy strongly refuted Naidu’s accusations. He described the charges as “malicious” and accused Naidu of political maneuvering. According to Subba Reddy, the TDP supremo would “stoop to any level for political gain,” implying that these allegations were nothing more than a tactic to sway public opinion against the ruling party. This statement shows the growing tension between the two political factions, with each accusing the other of exploiting the temple's controversy for their own interests.

The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, holds immense significance in the hearts of Hindus worldwide. As one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara—an incarnation of Lord Vishnu—it has a reputation that stretches far beyond India’s borders. Positioned atop the Tirumala hills, part of the Seshachalam Range, the temple’s majestic setting complements its spiritual importance. Devotees from across the globe make their pilgrimage to this sacred site, offering prayers and seeking blessings, drawn by its profound cultural and spiritual appeal.

Managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), an independent trust under the supervision of the Andhra Pradesh government, the temple’s operations are carried out on a massive scale. The trust ensures the proper management of grand rituals and festivals, including the globally renowned “Laddu Prasadam.” This prasadam holds divine status among worshippers, as it is not only seen as a sacred offering to Lord Venkateswara but also cherished as a symbol of his blessings. The temple is also famous for festivals like Brahmotsavam, which draw millions of people, highlighting the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural importance of this sacred site.

While Naidu’s assurances of improving the prasadam’s quality may calm some nerves, the deeper question of trust remains at the forefront. With both political leaders exchanging strong accusations, it is clear that this controversy is far from over, and the shadow it has cast on one of India’s most respected religious institutions will take time to lift.

Animal fat used instead of Ghee for preparing laddus served as prasad at Tirumala Temple under erstwhile YSR Congress Govt, claims Chandrababu Naidu

On Wednesday, September 18, a shocking accusation was made by Chandrababu Naidu, alleging that animal fat had been used in place of ghee in the preparation of the sacred laddus, which are served as Prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala. According to Naidu, this sacrilege took place during the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) regime. The gravity of this allegation, coming from the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, has only intensified the controversy surrounding the Tirumala temple’s offerings.

Naidu, while addressing an NDA legislative party meeting, expressed his outrage over the situation, terming it nothing less than an affront to the sanctity of the temple. “They (YSRC government) not only provided substandard food to the devotees, such as Anna Prasadam in Tirumala, but also used inferior quality ingredients to make Prasadam, which is offered to Lord Venkateswara. Instead of using pure ghee, they used animal fat,” Naidu alleged in Telugu. This bold statement struck at the core of the YSRCP’s governance, raising serious concerns about the purity of the sacred offerings made at one of the most revered temples in the world.

The allegation, if true, paints a disturbing picture of the YSR Congress Party’s handling of temple affairs, particularly the sacred offerings made to Lord Venkateswara. The use of animal fat in place of pure ghee would not only be a violation of religious practices but also a direct insult to the millions of devotees who visit the temple, trusting in the purity of its offerings. For Hindus, the Prasadam is not just food; it is a divine blessing, and any contamination of it, especially with substances like animal fat, is considered an unforgivable offense.

Naidu further elaborated on the steps taken under his leadership to restore the purity and sanctity of the temple's offerings. “Today, we are using pure ghee and cleansed the system in the temple. Quality of Prasadam and food have improved and steps are being taken to make further improvements,” Naidu explained, suggesting that his government has rectified the alleged mismanagement of the temple’s sacred offerings. His words reflect the efforts to win back the trust of devotees, who were left disillusioned by the scandal.

However, not everyone is accepting Naidu’s claims without resistance. Senior YSR Congress Party leader and former chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), YV Subba Reddy, was quick to dismiss the accusations. He labeled Naidu’s allegations as “malicious” and accused the TDP chief of being willing to “stoop to any level for political gain.” Reddy’s sharp rebuttal indicates the deepening political divide over this issue, as both sides continue to trade accusations regarding the handling of temple affairs.

Subba Reddy, who served as TTD chairman for two terms, did not hold back in his criticism of Chandrababu Naidu, accusing him of severely damaging the sanctity of the Tirumala temple and undermining the faith of millions of Hindus. In a sharp rebuke, Reddy stated, “Chandrababu Naidu has committed a grave sin by tarnishing the sanctity of the sacred Tirumala temple and undermining the faith of millions of Hindus. His remarks about the Tirumala Prasadam are extremely vile. No person of human decency would make such statements or accusations.” His words highlight the deep divide between the two political figures, with Reddy condemning Naidu’s remarks as an unacceptable attack on the sacred temple and its traditions.

Reddy’s condemnation didn’t stop there. He further accused Naidu of exploiting this sensitive issue purely for political gain, expressing that Naidu has demonstrated once again that he is willing to stoop to any level to achieve his political objectives. “Once again, it has been proven that Chandrababu will stop at nothing for political gain,” Reddy added, reflecting the growing hostility between the TDP and YSRCP as they continue to clash over the controversy surrounding the Tirupati Laddu Prasadam.

To underscore his commitment to defending the sanctity of the temple, Subba Reddy made a bold public challenge. He declared his willingness to take an oath before the deity, along with his family, to prove the purity of the Tirumala Prasadam and restore the faith of devotees. “To restore the faith of devotees, I, along with my family, am ready to take an oath before the deity regarding the Tirumala Prasadam,” Reddy wrote in a post in Telugu on X (formerly Twitter). He then questioned whether Naidu would be willing to do the same. “Is Chandrababu prepared to do the same with his family?” Reddy’s challenge not only questions Naidu’s credibility but also aims to publicly demonstrate his own faith and sincerity, positioning him as a defender of the temple’s sanctity.

The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, situated in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most sacred and revered Hindu temples globally. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the temple is perched high atop the Tirumala hills, which form part of the Seshachalam Range. It is a place of profound religious significance, attracting devotees from all corners of the world. They come to offer prayers and seek blessings, making it not only a spiritual hub but also one of the wealthiest and busiest pilgrimage sites in India.

Managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), an independent trust under the supervision of the Andhra Pradesh government, the temple is renowned for its elaborate rituals and offerings. One of the most famous of these is the “Laddu Prasadam,” considered by devotees to be a divine offering. Festivals such as Brahmotsavam further add to the temple’s global appeal, drawing millions of worshippers annually and underscoring its cultural and spiritual importance.